Biloxi, Mississipi anchor Dave Elliott recently took to social media to suggest that LGBT stories have been hogging the spotlight too much as of late. The solution? The entire community should go on a “gaycation, just for the weekend. Enjoy yourselves!” In his post, shown above thanks to jimromenesko.com, Elliott also professes to be an ally and advocate for LGBT causes.
Mediaite reports on the fallout from the incident:
Though the station has not issued any formal statement, they did comment on Facebook that “We are not happy at all with the post or any imagined ‘free publicity.'” They suggested outraged viewers should look to Elliott to address his own comments.
In another response, WLOX wrote: “[O]ur station is committed to covering news that happens in our community, and issues important to our viewers — that includes the LGBT community.” The station pointed to several examples of its own LGBT coverage, noting: “Just this week, we aired several stories about the LGBT community on the coast and a march to the state capitol. I would ask that you let that work speak to our commitment to ALL our viewers.”
Elliott later addressed the remarks, writing: “I recently made an insensitive and unprofessional Facebook post regarding the LGBT community. I did not choose my words wisely and I sincerely apologize to anyone who was offended by it. I've advocated for justice and equality my entire life. I hope this heartfelt apology is accepted in the spirit in which it is being made.”
